Published November 28th, 2018
Holiday toy drive looking to top last year's success
By Vera Kochan
In the spirit of the season, the Moraga Police Officer's Association along with the Moraga Police Department is once again partnering with The Marine Toys For Tots Program, to bring joy to less fortunate children in the community and throughout the United States.
This year's second annual Holiday Toy Drive, takes place at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec 7 at the Hacienda De Las Flores, 2100 Donald Drive, in Moraga.
Attendees are asked to donate a new, unwrapped toy or make a cash donation. Beer, wine, hors d'oeuvres and good cheer will be provided to all who drop by.
Moraga Police Det. Kevin Mooney is this year's event organizer. "I have been involved with the Toys for Tots program since my Marine Corps Reserve days in the '90s," he said. "I count it as one of the most important and satisfying endeavors in which I have participated. A great program for a great cause."
Last year, six Toys for Tots boxes were filled with all types of toys. Cash contributions totaled a little over $5,500. Toy drive organizers are hoping to double those numbers this year. Even one extra toy or dollar can go a long way to making the holidays happy for a needy child.
Mooney noted that approximately 75 people attended the event last year and were very generous in supporting the cause. And while volunteers are no longer needed, donations for the food or beverages would be greatly appreciated.
If you can't make it to the festivities, but would still like to donate new, unwrapped toys or cash, please drop them off at the Moraga Police Department, 329 Rheem Blvd. If you'd like to donate online, go to the Toys for Tots website: www.toysfortots.org.
Additional information about the event can be seen at the town of Moraga website: www.moraga.ca.us. Or call Mooney at (925) 888-7056.
According to Mooney, "The Toy for Tots program began in Southern California in 1947, and became a nationwide Marine Corps Reserve program in 1948." He proudly stated, "Since that time, the program has donated over 548 million toys to over 251 million children. Ninety-seven percent of donations go directly to providing toys for children, with the remaining 3 percent going mostly to fundraising efforts."

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